The adsorption capacity of heavy metal ions by bamboo activated carbons was investigated in this study. ► The optimum pH values for adsorption capacity of heavy metal ions were 5.81–9.82 by bamboo activated carbons. ► The optimum soaking time was 2–4 h for Pb2+, 4–8 h for Cu2+ and Cd2+, and 4 h for Cr3+ by Moso bamboo activated carbons, and 1 h for the tested heavy metal ions by Ma bamboo activated carbons. ► The removal efficiency of heavy metal ions by the various bamboo activated carbons decreased in the order: Pb2+ > Cu2+ > Cr3+ > Cd2+.
Keywords
Bamboo; Activated carbon; Adsorption capacity; Removal efficiency; Heavy metal ion